What 10 Questions to ask a Roofing Contractor Before Hiring One

If you’re in the market for a new roof, it’s important to ask the right questions of any roofing contractor you might be considering hiring. Not all contractors are created equal, and not all of them will be a good fit for your specific project. By asking the right questions, you can get a better idea of which contractor is best suited for the job. In this blog post, we’ll outline 10 questions that you should ask any potential roofing contractor before deciding.

1. How long have you been in business?

Long-standing contractors are generally more dependable and experienced. Also, it’s no secret that the roofing industry is full of fly-by-night businesses only interested in short-term profits. Many roofing companies go under within five years flat–leaving their customers high and dry (literally).

To avoid future issues like needing repairs or filing for warranty claims, choosing a contractor with some longevity is often worth the upfront investment.

2. Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

Make sure to ask your contractor if they carry the necessary licenses, certifications, and liability insurance. Considering that you’re entrusting them with your safety and the safety of your loved ones, it’s crucial to only hire licensed and insured contractors. An unlicensed or uninsured contractor not only endangers your roof but also puts everyone at risk of accidents or injuries. Additionally, if you’re in certain states that require contractors to be bonded too, make sure to get a copy of their bond certificate.

3. Do you have references I can contact?

Reliable references are an excellent way to learn more about a contractor or company you’re interested in working with. Ask for contact information for past clients so that you can ask any questions or voice any concerns that come up. This will also give you insight into the roofer’s previous projects and ensure that they follow through on their promises. If they’re reluctant to provide this information, it could be a sign that they’re not the right fit for your needs.

Reputation websites like Google, Angi, and the Better Business Bureau can also give you insight into a company. Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback to help you make the best decision.

4. What type of materials do you use?

When you’re talking to a roofing contractor about replacing your roof, ask them what materials they use. This includes shingles, underlayment, and venting. It’s important to find out if their suppliers are high quality or if they’re common in the industry. If the roofer is cagey about what materials, they use it’s likely because they’re trying to cut costs by using poor quality materials.

5. How long will the project take?

It is crucial to request an estimate of the job’s duration so that you can plan your schedule around it. To ensure peace of mind, ask the roofer for a timeline of when they plan to start and finish the job. A reputable roofing contractor should be able to complete an average-sized home within a day or two. Asking these questions also demonstrates the roofing professional’s communication skills, as it requires time management and clear communication.

6. What kind of warranty do you offer?

Most roofing companies will provide two types of warranties: one for workmanship and another for the materials used. The material warranty is typically handled directly through the manufacturer, but the roofing company should still be available to act as a go-between if necessary. Be sure to ask about what exactly is covered under each warranty, as well as how long each one lasts.

7. Do you offer roof replacement financing? If so, what are your rates?

If you’re worried about affording your roof replacement, don’t fret! Many roofing contractors offer financing options with reasonable interest rates. Just make sure to ask about available programs and compare different lenders before settling on one—that way, you can be confident you’re getting the best deal possible. Once you’ve found a loan that works for you, find out if there are any fees associated with it or penalties for paying it off early so that there are no surprises down the line.

8. Has their company won any awards?

It’s always a good idea to ask roofing contractors if they have any awards or recommendations. This is a great way to learn more about their level of expertise and dedication to quality workmanship. Awards are especially helpful as they provide evidence of a contractor’s skill and track record. Are they an Angi Super Service Award Winner or a Featured Pro on Porch? Those things can be the deciding factors when comparing companies.

9. Ask them what differentiates their replacement process?

It’s important to understand what the roofing contractor plans to do differently from their competitors when it comes to replacing your roof.

• Do they use Synthetic Underlayment’s?
• Do they install Ice & Water Shields on all roofs?
• Do they place Starter Strips at ALL the eaves?
• Do they replace ALL non-heating & air vents and flashings?

Also, make sure that you are comfortable with the way they plan to protect your landscaping, windows, and other areas around the house during the project.

10. Do you offer FREE Roof Inspections and what does it entail?

A contractor that doesn’t offer free roof inspections is likely not one you want to trust. Many reputable roofing contractors provide complimentary inspections so that homeowners have an accurate estimate of the job’s cost before agreeing to anything. Furthermore, ask about the details of the inspection. Will they simply check for small repairs, or will they do a full examination of your roof and guarantee it meets code requirements? These are all key questions when narrowing down potential candidates for the job.

Ready to Talk to A Roofing Contractor? Book a Consultation!

If you want to find the best roofing contractor, ask these 10 questions. Research and due diligence are crucial when making this decision because they will affect the quality of your home or project. Don’t wait to reach out to Roof MD in Tennessee for more information about our process or to book an FREE Roof inspection!